Hebrew Names

See SARAI.

Jobina may be the female version of Job, but it doesn't carry the same negative weight as that of the biblical martyr -- in fact, few would get the connection. Joby is its perky and unusual nickname.

Tzophiah is a feminine name with Hebrew origins, believed to be a variant of Sophia or Tzofia, meaning "watchful" or "one who observes." The initial "Tz" sound reflects the Hebrew letter צ (tzadi), giving the name an authentic Hebrew pronunciation. This name carries spiritual significance in Jewish tradition, potentially connecting to wisdom and watchfulness. Tzophiah is extremely rare outside of Jewish communities, making it a distinctive choice that still maintains cultural authenticity. The name has a sophisticated, lyrical quality with its three syllables (tzo-PHI-ah). Parents might choose this name to honor Jewish heritage or for its unique combination of exotic sound and meaningful etymology. Its rarity ensures individuality while its connection to the popular Sophia provides some familiarity.

Gavriella is a feminine name of Hebrew origin, the female form of Gabriel, meaning 'God is my strength' or 'devoted to God.' This elegant name combines biblical significance with a melodious quality. While less common than Gabriella (its variant spelling), Gavriella has gained modest popularity in Jewish communities and beyond. The name preserves the Hebrew pronunciation more closely than its variants, making it appealing to parents seeking authenticity. Gavriella offers numerous nickname possibilities, including Gavrie, Ella, or Rielle. With its beautiful sound, meaningful etymology, and balance between uniqueness and familiarity, Gavriella represents a choice that is distinctive without being difficult to pronounce or understand. Its usage has gradually increased in recent decades.

Lively sounding Hebrew choice.

Shoushan is a romantic member of the Susan/Susannah/Shoshana family — rhythmic and melodic.

Supermodel Shalom Harlow glamorized this name, which is heard as a greeting every day in Israel.

The relationship to "ill" makes this and similar names less pleasing than the versions that start with A or E.

This unusual variation of Margaret is the real first name of actress Maggie Gyllenhaal. It can make a distinctive way to honor an ancestral Margaret or a different long form for such nicknames as Maggie, Meg, or Margo.

Tziamarnit is a feminine name that appears to have indigenous origins, possibly Inuit or another Arctic culture. Names in these traditions often connect to natural elements, spiritual concepts, or important cultural values. While extremely rare in global usage, Tziamarnit represents the rich naming traditions of northern indigenous peoples. The name's distinctive phonetic pattern makes it stand out in most cultural contexts. Names from indigenous Arctic traditions often carry deep meanings related to the natural world, ancestral wisdom, or community values, though specific meanings can vary significantly by dialect and region. The preservation and use of such traditional names helps maintain cultural heritage and linguistic diversity.

You might want to abbreviate this from one of the Biblical originals or use it as a name all on its own, an update of Sam or Finn. Sim is a Scottish Gaelic form of Simon.

Abra is soft, sensitive feminine form of Abraham that was the name of a soft, sensitive character in the John Steinbeck book and movie, "East of Eden." In the bible, Abra was a favorite of King Solomon and it was a popular name in seventeenth century England. Abra is also a West African name used for girls born on Tuesday. The magical 'abracadabra' is thought to have originated in the Aramaic language.

Also spelled Bethia and Bithiah, this Old Testament name could wear well today. Bethea might make an original way to honor an ancestral Elizabeth or get to the nickname Beth.

Hillbilly twang.

Hagar is an Old Testament name with an unfortunate association with comic strip character "Hagar the Horrible."

Though this name is beginning to be added for girls, it's not usually in the classic Biblical form. Most parents would use Jaden or other more "creative" spellings such as Jaidyn.

Also a city near Tel Aviv, Hadar is a name found primarily in Israel. There is also a citrus fruit associated with the holiday of Sukkat the Torah calls the "hadar fruit".

A biblical name -- he was the father of Abraham -- but the father's name is much less appealing than the son's, in both sound and meaning.

Abital is popular for boys as well as girls in Israel, but we rarely hear it here. In the Old Testament, Abital was one of King David's wives and the mother of his fifth son.